Many people experience traumatic events at some point in their lifetime. Some of the people who experience traumatic events may eventually develop a disorder called post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a type of anxiety disorder that occurs “post-trauma” or after being exposed to some kind of traumatic event.
A variety of symptoms make up a PTSD diagnosis. You can learn more about the specific symptoms of PTSD, as well as the requirements for a PTSD diagnosis below:
The Requirements for a PTSD Diagnosis
How Common is PTSD?
PTSD is more common than you might think, and PTSD does not discriminate based on age, sex, or racial/ethnic background. Read more about the rate with which PTSD occurs in different age, gender, marital, and racial/ethnic groups:
PTSD Rates Based on Age, Sex, and Marital Status
PTSD Rates Based on Race/Ethnicity
Why Does PTSD Develop?
Responses to a traumatic life event differ from person to person. Specific factors that increase risk for the development of PTSD following a traumatic event have been identified. Factors that "protect" people from developing PTSD after a traumatic event have also been identified.
Can You Prevent PTSD After Experiencing Trauma?
Other Problems Among People with PTSD
The symptoms of PTSD are distressing enough. Unfortunately though, people with PTSD often experience other problems. You can learn more about some of these difficulties here:
Other Anxiety Disorders and PTSD
Drug and Alcohol Problems and PTSD
Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD
Recovering from PTSD
Fortunately, there is hope for people suffering from PTSD. A number of factors have been linked to recovery from trauma. In addition, treatments are available that have been found to help people recover from PTSD. Medication has also been found to help individuals with PTSD better cope with their symptoms.
I hope that you find the information you need on this site. Look through the site to find more specific information on PTSD, and continue to come back to stay updated on important new developments in the understanding and treatment of PTSD.
